BISSAU, March 18, 2025 - Some of the key findings from the , a new World Bank report, highlight that strengthening human capital is crucial for reducing poverty and fostering long-term sustainable growth in Guinea-Bissau. Investments in health, nutrition, social protection, and education are key to enabling individuals to reach their full potential as future workers and contribute to the country's economic growth.
¡°The Human Capital Review provides a critical assessment of the current state of human capital in Guinea-Bissau, identifying gaps and offering key insights to inform the government¡¯s development policies and align our operations to the country¡¯s needs,¡± said Rosa Brito, World Bank Group Resident Representative in Guinea-Bissau. ¡°This study outlines the need for more investments in health, education, and social protection to strengthen human capital in Guinea-Bissau. In response, the World Bank has approved a $20 million project to drive progress in these critical sectors, laying the groundwork for sustainable development and poverty reduction.¡±
Human capital comprises the knowledge, skills, and health people accumulate over their lives, enabling them to realize their potential as productive members of society. In Guinea-Bissau, cross-cutting constraints such as climate challenges, gender disparities, and fragility hinder the strengthening and preservation of human capital.
Some of the report¡¯s recommendations include improving access to quality health care to decrease the high maternal and neonatal mortality rates; improving nutrition for pregnant women and children under the age of five to prevent negative effects on their physical and cognitive development; expanding access to quality basic education; establishing a social protection system to support the poor and vulnerable population; and developing economic inclusion measures to support unemployed educated youth.
The report also advises Guinea-Bissau to reactivate the National Council for Social Protection to facilitate strong coordination among stakeholders; increase local and community participation in service delivery; and establish a national social registry.
Read and download the report .
